Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast

Customizable: While the traditional version of this dish is simple, you can easily customize it by adding vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or peas. You can also switch out the chipped beef for other meats like sausage or ham for a unique twist.

Ingredients for Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic dish:

For the Creamed Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or use half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
• 8 oz jar of chipped beef (drained and sliced into strips)

For Serving:

• 4 slices of toast (white, whole wheat, or any bread of your choice)

Instructions for Making Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Toast

Start by toasting the bread slices to your desired level of crispiness. You can use a toaster, a toaster oven, or a skillet to get the bread golden and crunchy. Set aside while you prepare the creamed beef sauce.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to create the delicious, creamy sauce that makes this dish so comforting.

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour. Continue to cook the flour and butter mixture for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates the roux (a thickening agent for the sauce).
3. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce begins to thicken, which will take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Add the Chipped Beef

After the sauce has thickened to your liking, it’s time to add the chipped beef.

1. Add the sliced chipped beef to the saucepan and stir it into the sauce. Let the beef warm through for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the creamy sauce.
2. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve the Creamed Chipped Beef

Once the creamed beef is ready, it’s time to serve!

1. Spoon the creamed chipped beef generously over the toasted bread slices. You can arrange the toast on a plate and then pour the creamy mixture over the top.
2. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of additional dried parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast

1. Use High-Quality Chipped Beef: Chipped beef can be found in jars or vacuum-sealed packages, and it’s important to get a good-quality brand. Some chipped beef can be quite salty, so make sure to taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
2. Add Veggies for Extra Flavor: If you want to add a little extra flavor and texture to the dish, consider sautéing some onions, mushrooms, or peas and adding them to the sauce. This will give the dish more complexity and nutrition.
3. Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply add more milk until you reach your desired consistency. If you like a thicker, more substantial sauce, cook it a little longer.
4. Make it with Sausage or Ham: While chipped beef is the classic choice for this dish, feel free to substitute it with other cooked meats like crumbled sausage or diced ham for a different take on the dish.
5. Top with Eggs: For an even heartier meal, try topping your creamed chipped beef on toast with a fried or poached egg. The runny yolk adds a delicious richness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with some tasty sides to round out your meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy, seasoned potatoes make a great side dish to complement the creamy texture of the chipped beef.
• Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit, like orange slices or berries, offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing balance to the richness of the creamed beef.

Final Thoughts

Creamed Chipped Beef on Toast is a nostalgic, comforting dish that continues to be loved by many for its simple ingredients and satisfying flavors. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this hearty dish offers a warm, creamy indulgence that’s perfect for cold days or whenever you’re in need of a filling, delicious meal.

Its rich, savory sauce, combined with crispy toast, makes it a timeless classic that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. So, next time you’re craving something warm and comforting, give this classic recipe a try—it’s a delicious reminder of how the simplest dishes can bring so much joy.